Effect of vibrostimulatory wearable technology on stereotyped behaviour in a child with autism and intellectual disability.

This study looked at one child with autism and intellectual disability who showed a lot of repetitive movements. Researchers tested a wearable device that provided gentle vibrations. When the vibrating device was on, the child's repetitive movements stopped completely and their hand movements became more precise. The child seemed to enjoy using the device.

This case report examined the effects of vibrostimulatory wearable technology on stereotyped behaviours in one child with autism and intellectual disability. The child received bilateral vibrostimulation (210 Hz, 2.8 µm) in a specific pattern for 3-minute intervals. Measurements alternated between device on and off conditions. Results showed complete disappearance of stereotyped movements during vibrostimulation periods and improved precision in intentional hand movements.

The child reportedly enjoyed the vibrostimulation experience. This represents preliminary evidence that vibrotactile stimulation may temporarily reduce repetitive behaviours in some children with autism.

Vibrostimulatory technology shows potential as a non-invasive intervention for reducing stereotyped behaviours in autism. However, this single case provides only preliminary evidence. Controlled studies with larger samples and longer observation periods are needed before clinical recommendations can be made.

Single case report with no control conditions or statistical analysis. Very short observation periods (3 minutes). No follow-up data or assessment of longer-term effects. Subjective outcome measures. Cannot determine generalisability to other children with autism.

The aim of the work has been to report on the effects of vibrostimulation, administered through wearable technology, on stereotyped behaviour of a child in middle childhood, with autism, intellectual disability and severe behaviour in the 'stereotypic behaviour' subscale of the Restricted and Repetitive Behaviour Revised Scale. He received vibrostimulation (210 Hz, 2.8 µm), with a continuous pattern of vibration: three vibrations of 700 ms, each separated by a rest period of 500 ms and a pause of 8000 ms. Vibration was delivered bilaterally by two devices, repeating the vibration pattern for 3 min. The measures were repeated four times alternately, with the device turned off and on.

The outcome measure was frequency of stereotyed behaviour, which was evaluated for 3 min with and without vibrostimulation. The results and observations, over 3 min of stimulation, showed the disappearance of stereotyped movements during vibrostimulation and better precision in intentional hand movements. Subjectively, the child enjoyed vibrostimulation.